SHSHL Previews

National Division

Central Bucks East

Coach: Jeff Mitchell (sixth season)

Last year: 10-10-1, 10-7-1 in divisional play; Class AA Flyers Cup invitee

Key players: So. Cameron Young (G); Sr. Alex Wilson (F); Sr. Ethan Cenci (F); Sr. Braedon Hahn (F); Sr. Evan Asimakopoulos (F); Sr. Cole Kleindienst (F)

Outlook: The Patriots are a team in transition, in Mitchell’s words “Retooling rather than rebuilding.” Some key pieces from last year’s team are lost to graduation. There may be early growing pains but the plan is to blend youthful energy and team chemistry to create success.

Central Bucks South

Coach: Josh Sklar (first season)

Last year: 17-7, 15-3 in divisional play; Class AA Flyers Cup invitee

Key players: Jr. Nathan Napolitano (G); Sr. JD Crouch (D); So. Braxton Lord (D); Sr. Ryan Frey (F); Sr. Ryan Montagna (F); Sr. Joey Slobodrian (F); Jr. Dominic Gibson (F); Jr. Grant Boyne (F); Fr. Owen Frey (F); Fr. Nolan Senigo (F)

Outlook: Sklar takes over for the retiring Shaun McGinty; he directed the Titans on an interim basis during portions of last season.

This year’s roster will feature a solid group of veterans, led by Napolitano in goal and a promising group of underclassmen.

The pieces are in place for a promising season.

Central Bucks West

Coach: Frank Blust (first season)

Last year: 0-18, 0-18 in divisional play

Key players: Jr. Issac Mays (G); Sr. Austin Griffin (D); Jr. Colin Murray (F/D); Sr. Jackson Hirsch (F); Jr. Alex Korolev (F); So. Tyler Ricci (F)

Outlook: Blust takes over behind the bench for Dave Baun, who retired after 20 seasons. He’s looking to field a lineup that blends youth and experience.

“We’ve brought back a nice core that I think will work well with some of our new faces,” Bust said. “They’ve worked hard to improve in all three zones and build some team chemistry.”

Council Rock South

Coach: Joe Houk (20^th season)

Last year: 22-3, 17-1 in divisional play, National Division champions; Class AA Flyers Cup finalist

Key players: Sr. Trey Prozzillo (G); So. Evan Ayala (G); Jr. Wes Mallon (D); Sr. Jake Weiner; Sr. Jordan Sarne (F)

Outlook: The Golden Hawks lost eight seniors off last year’s championship squad but Houk, the longest-tenured coach in the SHSHL, feels good about this year’s squad, which will be trying for its fourth straight National Division title and is poised to make another championship run.

Weiner led the SHSHL in scoring last season with 41 regular-season goals and 19 assists for 60 points. Sarne collected 41 points via 18 goals and 23 assists.

Neshaminy

Coach: Bill Mooney (second season)

Last year: 6-12-1, 5-12-1 in divisional play

Key players: Sr. Gianna Raggio (G); Fr. Tommy Fox (G); Jr. Sean Mooney (D); Fr. Kainen Thompson (D); Sr. Anthony DiCrosta (F); Sr. Angelo Veneziale (F); Sr. Jake Topoleski (F); So. Nate Parker F; So. Tyler Hathaway (F); So. Eli Kirsh (F); Fr. Chris Koehler (F)

Outlook: The ‘Skins lost three key players to graduation after last season and will be in adjustment mode at first after just missing the postseason a year ago.

“Our goals as a team this season are to continue to work hard, compete in every game,” Mooney said, “make the SHSHL playoffs and get an invite to this year’s Flyers Cup tournament.”

North Penn

Coach: Kevin Vaitis (17^th season)

Last year: 21-3, 16-2 in divisional play; Class AA Flyers Cup and state champions

Key players: Jr. Aidan Quigley (G); So. Any Norton (G); St. James Boyle (D); Sr. Danielle Cabrales (D); Sr. Chase Kelly Del-Ricci (D); Sr. Gabe Dunn (D); Jr. Sam Norton (F); Sr. Nolan Shingle (F); Jr. Chris Silvotti (F); St. Luke Haftel (F)

Outlook: When you’ve won a Flyers Cup and a state title, what do you do for an encore? North Penn will do its best to answer that question with an impressive corps of returnees.

Norton is second among the division’s returning scorers with 30 regular-season goals a year ago and 27 assists for 57 points.

“We know everyone is going to bring their best against us,” Vaitis said, “and we have to be ready every night we step on the ice. We will be led by great goaltending, strong defense, and multiple lines that can contribute up front. We are focused on getting better each week.”

Pennsbury

Coach: Ryan Daley

Last year: 6-14, 6-12 in divisional play

Key players: Sr. Brendan Milliken (G); Sr. Franky DeLucia (D); Jr. Connor Gray (D); Sr. Shane Gleisner (F); Jr. Jake Sarver (F)

Outlook: A young Falcon team went through some growing pains last season. But the additional year of experience will pay dividends this time around.

“With more experience at the varsity level we look to make a jump in the standings,” Daley said, “and push for another postseason run.”

Pennridge

Coach: Jeff Montagna (eighth season)

Last year: 14-9, 11-7 in divisional play; Class AA Flyers Cup quarterfinalist

Key players: Jr. Andrew Slutsky (G); St. Justin Dinsmore (D); r. Ryan Burke (F); Jr. Landon Bishop (F); Jr. Dean Venner (F); Sr. Kaden Gunning (F);

Outlook: Montagna is behind the bench after announcing he was stepping away at the close of last season. He’ll be presiding over a new era of Pennridge hockey; there are just skaters on the roster, four of whom are new to varsity competition.

“I told them it will be a challenge,” Montagna said, “but that they will find out a lot about themselves as players and competitors. We will have to play a completely different style but they are up for it and we will have some fun with it. I’m really excited to see how it works.”

Souderton

Coach: Ryan Uchniat (eighth season)

Last year: 6-13, 6-12 in divisional play

Key players: Sr. Max Ryon (F); Jr. Cameron Fairweather (F); Jr. Matthew Cross (F)

Outlook: Uchniat will be back behind the Souderton bench after taking a year off. The Big Red will be short in numbers but there are some game-changing players in the lineup. Ryon scored 26 regular-season goals last year and added 32 assists for 58 points to finish third in the National Division in scoring.

American Division

Abington

Coach: Ken Brzozowski (ninth season)

Last year: 0-16, 0-16 in divisional play

Key players: Jr. Matt Evangelist (G); Sr. Moses Garcia (D); Jr. Ben Biko (D); R. Liam Gura (D); Sr. Jamison Donofty (F); So. Joey Widmeier (F)

Outlook: The Galloping Ghosts will be one of the youngest teams in the SHSHL; there are just three senior on the roster. The lineup also features Evangelist, a quality goaltender.

A preseason camp at the University of Delaware got the team off on the right foot.

“We’re looking to build on the early season momentum” Brzozowski said. “The coaches are committed to and look forward to being part of the team’s continued improvements and progression towards returning Abington back to a championship level”

Hatboro-Horsham

Coach: Shane Smith (fifth season)

Last year: 12-9, 9-7 in divisional play; American Division champion, Class A Flyers Cup quarterfinalist

Key players: Jr. Eric Miller (G); Jr. Reid Rochestie (D); So. Joseph Magnon (F); Sr. Nate Nemchinov (F); So. Vincent Graziani (F) Jr. William Moffa (F)

Outlook: The Hatters come into the season off an American Division title and the first Flyers Cup win in school history.

Graziani with 22 goals and 25 assists (47 points) and Nemchinov (27-18-45) were second and third in the division in scoring last season.

Plymouth Whitemarsh

Coach: Vince Forti (second season)

Last year: 17-3, 15-1 in divisional play; American Division regular season champion, Class A Flyers Cup quarterfinalist

Key players: So. Max Yoder (G); So. Lucas Bennett (G); Sr. Ryan Jagher (D); Sr. Danny Guller (F-D); Sr. John Zawislak (F); So. Cooper Kanze (F)

Outlook: The Colonials return the bulk of the lineup of last year’s regular-season champions.

“We are looking forward to getting the year started,” Forti said. “The team chemistry has been great. Our guys have been practicing hard, unsatisfied with the results of last season. We hope to get off to a strong start and continue to build on that throughout the season. “

Guller (19 goals, 33 assists, 52 points) is the division’s top returning scorer.

Springfield (Montco)

Coach: Don Quinn (third season)

Last year: 8-9, 8-8 in divisional play

Key players: Fr. Emmett Kline(G), So. John Barr(D), Jr. Luke Belles (D); Sr. Gavin McManus(F), Sr. Kellen Warman(F), Sr. Grayson Quinn(F)

Outlook: The Spartans reached the playoffs a year ago and Quinn is hoping to use that as accomplishment as a springboard to success this season.

“We will rely heavily on our seniors to lead on and off the ice,” he said, and we have some young skilled players that will contribute this season.”

Wissahickon

Coach: James Rumsey (third season)

Last year: 8-9, 8-8 in divisional play

Key players: Sr. Fletcher Lynch (G); St. Logan Dicus (D), Jr. Joey Gambino (F); Jr. Logan Honeycutt (F); Jr. Mark Risnychok (F)

Outlook: The Trojans lost five seniors to graduation but Rumsey is excited about what lies ahead.

“We are excited to see the new generation of players take the ice and step up to the challenge,” he said. “Our players seem to have a great connection at practice and really seem to enjoy being on the ice together.

“We have a short bench in numbers but a lot of grit to make up for it. I have no doubt this group will leave everything they have on the ice this year.”

Writers Wanted

Hockey Happenings is looking for writers to be part of our coverage of Philadelphia area high-school hockey this season. I am particularly in need of writers to cover games in Delaware and Chester Counties.

Candidates should have some sort of writing background, be knowledgeable about ice hockey, and have availability on weeknights.

For more information, contact us through this web site or at rwoelfel2013@gmail.com. Please include: High School Hockey in the subject line.

Baskin at Home in Goal for Spartans

Two year ago, Springfield-Montco was eager to launch its hockey program and become part of the Suburban High School Hockey League. But the Spartans were without a goaltender. So, Liam Baskin, who was a sophomore at the time stepped up, to play arguably the most . demanding position to be found in any team sport.

“They asked if anyone was willing,” Baskin said. “I’d always wanted to play it so I said ‘You know what? I’ll give it a shot’ and that’s how I got here.”

Baskin is a senior now but still isn’t quite sure what appealed to him about being in goal.

“[His teammates] say I’m crazy,” he said. “When I started playing hockey I kind of got the interest in one day being a goaltender but the expense getting the equipment and what not wasn’t practical so I started as a skater and then this opportunity came and I was like ‘I’ll take a shot at it.’”

In years past some SHSHL teams have had to look outside their student bodies for goaltender and thus became ineligible for league and Flyers Cup play. But Baskin’s presence in goal allowed the Spartans to remain pure; i.e. they could be full-fledged members of the SHSHL and play a complete league schedule. He takes pride in stepping up for his team in its time of need.

“It feels good,” he said. “It also put a lot of pressure on me the first year because I was the only goaltender. Last year another one of our skaters was that he was willing to take on the role too, so we now have two goaltenders. “The first year there was a lot of pressure on me and I think knowing now I can do better now that I know the position better. I can serve them better in net.”

Baskin picks up the finer points of his position by watching goaltenders at other levels of the sport.

“Like positioning around the crease,” he said. “I see they like to play at the top a lot. I also watch them when they move a little bit, they stay square to the puck. That’s what I’ve mainly picked up.”

Unlike many high-school players, Baskin does not play club hockey although at one time he skated with the Hatfield Ice Dogs.

“I like to focus on high school and improving myself here instead of going to games every weekend,” he said. “I try to make sure I’m ready for practice each week and ready for each game.”

Baskin enjoys the camaraderie he experiences playing high-school hockey, with his teammates and with other Springfield students as well.

“It’s just being able to play hockey with this group of guys,” he said, “and them also seeing them and talking about it in school and especially now; other people in our school are willing to come out to the games and what not That’s a really cool experience.”

North Penn 6 Downingtown West 2

EAST GOSHEN TOWNSHIP—It was the sort of game one would expect to see during the second week of March as opposed to the third week of November. North Penn and Downingtown West demonstrated why they expect to be taken seriously in the weeks and months to come.

For the record, the Knights prevailed 6-2 in the SHSHL-ICSHL crossover matchup Friday night at Ice Line but the affair was much more closely contested than the score would indicate; it was a one-goal game until the closing minutes of the third period.

It was an evening the Knights celebrated their fourth consecutive victory of the young season, but North Penn coach Kevin Vaitis was quick to point out it was most of all an occasion to celebrate high-school hockey.

“I’m so glad we started doing the crossover games this year,” he said. “Downingtown East and C.B. South played last week, Boyertown-Pennridge and us and Downingtown West tonight.

“Heretofore, you don’t see these teams until March. It gives you an opportunity to play them and build high-school hockey in this area.”

Downingtown West coach Brett Mackel, who saw his team drop to 2-2 on the season, echoed those sentiments.

“I like that they added the crossover games this year,” he said. “Especially teams that we usually wouldn’t see until the Flyers Cup. It’s great having different teams come in, especially teams we’re not used to seeing.”

Sam Norton scored two goals for North Penn. Nolan Shingle was also credited with two goals while James Boyle produced a goal and an assist.

Goals from Bryce Schuler and Ryder Jones gave the Whippets a 2-1 lead 7:54 into the second period. Norton tied the game for North Penn with 2:18 left in the period and Boyle’s power-play goal 77 seconds later gave his team the lead for good at 3-2.

“I thought we came out a little flat,” Boyle said, “but then we picked it right back up. Then we got back on them.”

Shingle extended North Penn’s lead on a shot from the deep right wing with 6:29 left in regulation. His second goal was a power-play effort with 4:46 left after the Whippets were accessed a bench minor.

Norton added his second goal of the evening with two minutes to play when he lofted the puck from his own blue line into an empty net.

Aidan Quigley earned the win in goal with 26 saves, many of them achieved with heavy traffic in his field of view.

Mackel felt his team performed well in some areas but was lacking in others.

“We had a lot of penalty kills that we ended up killing off,” he said. We gave up two power-play goals, but other than that our kill was good.

Our goaltender [Justin Adams] gave up two power-play goals but he played pretty well.

“Negatives. We didn’t shoot the puck as much as we needed to tonight. Our defensive zone was pretty sloppy.”

North Penn 1 2 3—6

D-Town West 0 2 0—2

First-period goal: Gabriel Dunn (NP) from Aidan Quigley, 2:48

Second-period goals: Bryce Schuler (DW) from Ryder Jones, :44; Jones (DW) from Reed Surak, 7:54; Sam Norton (NP) from Chase Kelly Del Ricci, 14:42; James Boyle (NP) from Norton and Luke Haftel. 15:59

Third-period goals: Nolan Shingle (MP) from Cole Pluck, 10:31; Shingle (NP) from Boyle and Pluck, 12:16 (pp); Norton (NP) unassisted, 15:00 (en)

Shots: North Penn 35, Downingtown West 28; Saves: Aidan Quigley (NP) 26, Justin Adams (DW) 29

Thanksgiving Eve a Big Night for High School Hockey

Thanksgiving Eve is one of the high points of the scholastic hockey season. It’s an occasion that sees traditional rivalries renewed in front of enthusiastic audiences that often include alumni who are home from college for the holiday.

With the SHSH’s expanded league schedule, every game on this list save one will impact league standings.

Here is the schedule

La Salle vs. Malvern Prep 6:45 at Ice Line

Holy Ghost Prep vs. Father Judge 7:00 at Grundy Arena

C.B. East vs C.B. West 7:00 at Revolution Ice Gardens

Pennridge vs. Souderton 7:00 at Hatfield Ice

Pennsbury vs. Neshaminy 7:20 at Grundy Arena

Springfield vs HH/UD 7:30 at Bucks County Ice

C.R. North vs C.R. South 8:45 at Revolution Ice Gardens

North Penn vs C.B. South 9:00 at Hatfield Ice

SHSHL Preview

The Suburban High School Hockey League’s 51st season is underway. Here’s a look at how the teams shape up.

National Division

Central Bucks East

Coach: Jeff Mitchell (fourth season)

Last year: 8-10-1-0, 4-5-1-0 in division; Class AA Flyers Cup invitee

Key Players: Jr. Cole Breen (G), Sr. Sr Corey Kosick (F); Sr.

Carter Keiser (D); Sr. Kyle McIntyre (D); Sr. Ryan Gerkan (F)

Outlook: This season’s addition of the Patriot features a blend of experience and youth.

““The boys have looked great in practice,” Mitchell said. “You can tell they are eager to play some games, work together, and be better as a whole.

“Looking forward to what this and the coming seasons with this group have in store for us!”

Central Bucks South

Coach: Shaun McGinty (eighth season)

Last year: 9-9-0-1, 6-4 in division; Class AA Flyers Cup invitee

Key Players: Sr. Aidan Linso (D); Jr. Jake Stepp (D); Sr. D.J. Lindenmuth (F); Sr. Colin Mendham (F); Jr. Sean Cutter (F); So. Ryan Frey (F)

Outlook: After being dispatched in the first round of both the SHSHL playoffs and the Flyers Cup tournament a year ago, the Tians are looking for a bounce back season. Lindenmuth figures to be one of the area’s top offensive talents.

Central Bucks West

Coach: Dave Baun (20th season)

Last year: 5-11-0-1, 3-6-0-1 in division

Key Players: Sr. Liam Rogers (G); Sr. Johnny Cherubini (D); Sr. Adam Ricci (F); Sr. Nick Bruno (F); Jr. Zane Sanders (F); Jr. Brandon March (D); Jr. Anthony Dowd (F)

Outlook: The Bucks are blending an experienced corps of returnees, including Rogers in goal with some talented newcomers.

“We’re counting on strong senior leadership” Baun said. “We are looking forward to a successful season “The key to our success this season will be how well we play together and how hard we work at doing it.”

Council Rock North

Coach: Ryan Dorsey (first season)

Last year: 6-11-1-1, 3-5-1-1 in division; Class A Flyers Cup quarterfinalist

Key Players: Jr. Ian Goldberg (G); Sr. Nick Hahn (F); St. Jesse Schaaf (D); Jr. Jackson Accardi (D); So. Danny Maglathlin (D); Sr. Ryan Kell (F)

Outlook: Dorsey replaces the late Greg McDonald, who passed away October 10.

“Our program is still relatively young,” he said. “We will look to build off of the past few seasons and take strides forward. We especially will look to continue to build off of a strong finish last season.”

Goldberg is solid in goal while Hahan and Accardi provide scoring punch.

Council Rock South

Coach: Joe Houk (18^th season)

Last year: 19-2-0-1, 9-0-0-1 in division; Won division championship; Class AA Flyers Cup semifinalist

Key Players: Sr. Kevin Koles (D); St. Blaise Pepe (F); St. Illia Mukhin (F); Sr. Chase Tovsky (F)

Outlook: The defending SHSHL National Divisions champions should be formidable again this season. Pepe (12 regular-season goals, 16 assists, 28 points) provides firepower along with Koles (11-16-27).

“We should have a solid team this year with good depth,” Houk said.

Neshaminy

Coach: Bill Keyser (first season)

Last year: 13-7-1, 6-3-1-0 in the division; Class AA Flyers Cup quarterfinalist

Key Players: Sr. Cory Hemberger (G); Sr. Aidan Hullings (G); Jr. Liam Mooney (D); Sr. Aiden Gaspari (D); Sr. Stephen York (D); Sr. Ryan DeMatteo (F); Sr. Coleman Boles (F)

Outlook: Keyser, the one-time head coach at Truman, replaces the retired Matt DeMatteo. His ‘Skins will be young in spots but are experienced on defense and in goal. Hemberger and Hullings form one of the best goaltending tandems in the area.

North Penn

Coach: Kevin Vaitis (15^th season)

Last year: 5-10-1-1, 2-7-1-1 in the division

Key Players: Sr. Maks Harkins (G); So. James Boyle (D); So. Chase Kelly Del Ricci (D); Sr. Joey Silvotti (F); Sr. John Stinson (F); Sr. Cole Pluck (F); So. Nolan Shingle (F)

Outlook: After a disappointing season last winter the Knights are looking for bigger and better things this time around. Having 14 returnees in the lineup should help along with some talented newcomers.

“We hope to have a bounce back season where we will be looking to compete with the other top teams in the Suburban League” Vaitis said.

Pennridge

Coach: Jeff Montagna (sixth season)

Last year: 16-6, 8-2 in division; Class AA Flyers Cup finalist

Key Players: Jr. Jacob Winton (G); Sr. Tyler Manto (D); Sr. Trey Mikulich (D); Sr. Colin Dachowski (D); Jr. Nick Young (D); Sr. Andrew Savona (F); Jr. Shane Dachowski (F); Sr. Kevin Pico (F)

Outlook: The Rams prided themselves last season on their ability to put the puck in the net. That circumstance shouldn’t change this year as the bulk of the roster returns. Pico (24 goals, 25 assists, 49 points) paced the SHSHL’s National Division in scoring while Savona (16-22-38) was third in that category>

Pennsbury

Coach: Ryan Daley (seventh season)

Last year: 18-7-1, 8-2 in the division; runner-up in division; Class AA Flyers Cup champion and state finalist

Key Players: Sr. Aaron McDaniel (G); Sr. Conor Kane (D); Sr. Logan Doyle (F); Jr. Chris Sarver (F); So. Shane Gleisner (F)
Outlook: The Falcons graduated five seniors from last year’s Flyers Cup champions, but Daley is upbeat about what lies ahead.

“The leadership group in the locker room is as good as it’s ever been,” he said, “and we have a lot of guys that know what it takes to win championships. We have a strong goaltender and a lot of talent in front of him. I’m excited to see what we can do this season!”

Souderton

Coach: Ryan Uchniat (sixth season)

Last year: 6-12, 3-7 in the division

Key Players: Sr. Seth Grossman (F); Sr. Jacob Chow (F); Jr. Nick Smith (F): So. Max Ryon (F)

Outlook: The Big Red were and an up-and-down season a year ago but the core of the lineup returns, which bodes well for what lies ahead.

American Division

Abington

Coach: Ken Brzozowski (seventh season)

Last year: 16-1-1-1, 10-0-1-1 in American Division; won division championship. Class AA Flyers Cup invitee.

Key Players: Jr. Devin Brown (G); Sr. Sam Abramson (D); Sr. Seamus Donofry (F); Sr. Mike Romano (F); Sr. Devin Bates (F); Sr. Owen Adamski (F)

Outlook: The Galloping Ghosts are looking for their third straight division title, something that has never been done in the American Division since the SHSHL adopted a two-division format in 2003-04. They will be the divisional standard until they are dethroned.

“I am extremely excited for the next generation of players and equally proud of our returning players,” Brzozowski said, “and their commitment to our program and continuing another successful season.”

Bensalem

Coach: Bill Hood (first season)

Last year: 3-12-0-1, 2-7-0-1 in National Division

Key Players: Sr. Ricky Gonzalez (G); Sr. Justin Rapone (D); Jr. Danny Klein (D); Sr. Alex Hood (F); Jr. Alex Bazylevich (F); So. Lucas Gonzalez (F)

Outlook: The Owls were hurt by a lack of numbers last season as they skated in the National Division against schools with larger rosters. The new season finds them in what should be a more competitive environment.

“The team continues to improve every season,” Hood said, “and is hoping to compete for a playoff spot this season.

Plymouth Whitemarsh

Coach: Dave Cox (second season)

Last year: 12-8, 7-5 in American Division; Class A Flyers Cup invitee

Key Players: Jr. Julian Lucks (G); Fr. Jason Segal (D); Sr. Dylan Novitski (F); Sr. Tim Murphy (F); Sr. Issac Mishkin (F); Sr. David Branigan (F)

Outlook: The Colonials took some graduation hits off last year’s division runner-ups. This year’s roster will be perhaps the youngest in the SHSHL, and will feature a number of freshmen, but there will also be a strong veteran presence.

“We are very eager to take the ice and starting working our way back to the championship game,” Cox said. “The returning varsity players have used last year’s championship loss as fuel to start off the season strong.”

Springfield

Coach: Don Quinn (first season)

Last year: 0-16, 0-12 American Division

Key Players: Jr. Liam Baskin (G); Jr. Jack Sarsfield (G); Sr. Kenny Granderson (D); Jr. Owen Quinn (D); Sr. Marcel Camper (F); Jr. Chris Cahill (F); Jr. Gabe Wells (F); So. Grayson Quinn (F)
Outlook: The Spartans endured tough times in their inaugural SHSHL season but are looking to take some steps forward this season.

“The team is excited to get the season started,” Quinn said. “We have been working hard all off-season and hoping to be tough competition for our opponents all season.”

Wissahickon

Coach: James Rumsey (first season)

Last year: 9-8, 6-6 in American Division; Class A Flyers Cup invitee

Key Players: So. Fletcher Lynch (G); Sr. Daniel Hussa (D), Sr. Jack Raebiger (D)

Outlook: Rumsey takes over for Ken Harrington. His team will be one of the young in spots, one that will be looking to build off last year’s Flyers Cup appearance.

“The team has been working hard at practices to play each game like it’s the championship,” Rumsey said.

SHSHL Unveils 2023-24 Alignment

A total of 16 teams will skate in the Suburban High School Hockey League this season, one fewer than last year.

The National Division will feature 10 teams Defending champion Council Rock South will be joined by defending Class AA Flyers Cup champion Pennsbury along with Council Rock North, Neshaminy, Pennridge, Central Bucks East, Central Bucks West, Central Bucks South, Souderton, and North Penn

The six-team American Division will include defending champion Abington, Wissahickon, Hatboro-Horsham, which will skate as a pure team this season, Plymouth Whitemarsh, Springfield, and Bensalem, which moves over from the National Division, replacing Quakertown, which will not be part of the SHSHL in 2023-24.

The season schedule has not been announced. Traditionally the league season begins on or around the first week of November.

SHSHL Recap 12-13-22

National Division W L T OTL Pts

C.R. South (6-0) 1 0 0 0 0

C.B. East (4-2) 0 0 0 0 0

C.B. South (3-3-0-1) 1 0 0 0 0

C.B. West (3-4) 1 0 0 0 2

Bensalem (2-4) 1 0 0 0 2

Neshaminy (5-1) 0 0 0 0 0

Pennsbury (4-2) 0 0 0 0 0

Pennridge (3-2) 1 1 0 0 0

C.R. North (1-6) 1 2 0 0 2

North Penn (3-4) 0 1 0 0 0

Souderton (1-5-0-1) 0 2 0 0 0

American Division W L T OTL Pts

Abington (5-0-0) 5 0 0 0 8

Plymouth Whitemarsh (5-2) 4 1 0 0 4

Wissahickon (3-3) 3 2 0 0 6

Quakertown (3-3) 2 3 0 0 4

Springfield (0-4-1) 0 4 1 0 0

Scoring

National Division G A Pts

Brendan Macainsh (Pb) 12 5 17

Aydin Thierolf (CBS) 8 7 15

Alex Hood (Ben) 12 2 14

Blaise Pepe (CRS) 7 7 14

Corey Kosick (CBE) 9 5 14

Seth Grossman (Soud) 6 8 14

Andrew Savona (Pr) 5 8 13

Kevin Koles (CRS) 3 8 11

Chase Tovsky (CRS) 1 9 10

Jake Weiner (CRS) 8 2 10

Nick Smith (Soud) 8 2 10

John Stinson (NP) 8 2 10

Max Gallagher (Nes) 7 3 10

Luke Tremmel (CBW) 3 7 10

American Division G A Pts

Matthew Flynn (PW) 12 9 21

Matt Kramer (Ab) 12 7 19

David Branigan (PW) 6 11 17

Branden McNally (Q) 10 4 14

Will Hussa (Wiss) 11 3 14

Dylan Novitski (PW) 7 7 14

Pat Steleacio (Ab) 7 7 14

Ian Heydt (Ab) 5 8 13

Danny Hussa (Wiss) 8 4 12

William Shaw (Q) 4 7 11

Seth Abramson (Ab) 5 6 11

SHSHL Preview

National Division

Bensalem

Coach: Jordan Roth (second season)

Last year: 3-11

Key players: Jr. Ricky Gonzalez (G); Sr. Danny Mackley (D-F); Jr. Alex Hood (F-D); So. Alex Bazylevich (F-D); Fr. Lucas Gonzalez (F-D)

Outlook: The Owls took some big strides in their inaugural season last year and are looking continue that trend moving forward.

“This year we’re emphasizing the importance of ‘team’ Roth said. “Everything we do represents our team, our passion, and our purpose. As a team, we are ready to lead by example and be tough to play against.”

Central Bucks East

Coach: Jeff Mitchell (third season)

Last year: 6-10, Flyers Cup participant

Key players: Sr. Matt Magiacapre (G); Jr. Kyle McIntyre (D) Sr. Stephen DiRugeris (F); Jr. Corey Kosick (F)

Outlook: The Patriots feature a lineup that blends youth and experience. They’re backed by Mangiacapre, one of the area’s premier netminders.

Central Bucks South

Coach: Shuan McGinty (ninth season)

Last year: 6-7-1-2, Flyers Cup participant

Key players: Sr. Matt Crouch (D); Jr. Aidan Linso (D); So. Jake Stepp (D); Sr. Aydin Thierolf (F); Jr. Colin Mendham (F); Jr. D.J. Lindenmuth (F)

Outlook: The Bucks endured an up and down campaign a year ago but all signs point to brighter days on the horizon. As usual, McGinty will be counting on his veterans to lead the way

“It is time for the Titans to get back on track,” he said.

Central Bucks West

Coach: Dave Baun (19^th season)

Last year: 5-9

Key players: Jr. Liam Rogers (G); Sr. Sammy Poliak (D); Jr. Johnny Cherubini (D) Sr. Luke Tremmel (F); Jr. Nick Bruno (F); So. Anthony Dowd (F); So. Jack Misoda (F); So. Zane Sanders (F)

Outlook: The Bucks feature a solid group of returnees, led by Rogers in goal. The veterans will be supplemented by a talented group of young players that Baun is counting on, especially up front.

Council Rock North

Coach: Greg McDonald (second season)

Last year: 10-8. Flyers Cup participant

Key players: So. Ian Goldberg (G); So. Jackson Accardi (D); Jr. Nick Hahan (D); Sr. Noah Epstein (F); Jr. Karson Grainey (F)

Outlook: The Indians did a lot last year with a team that was lacking in experience and numbers. McDonald expects to be able to dress a full roster of 20 this season and his troops will have an additional year’s experience. It shapes up as a promising season.

Council Rock South

Coach: Joe Houk (17^th season)

Last year: 16-2-2-1, SHSHL and Flyers Cup finalist

Key players: Sr. Carson Lopez (G); Jr. Kevin Koles (D); Jr. Blaize Pepe (F); Jr. Chase Tovsky (F)

Outlook: The Golden Hawks played for the SHSHL and Flyers Cup titles last season. This season they return a team that is deep and talented. Houk has three quality lines and five solid defensemen to call on, plus an outstanding goaltender. The ingredients are on hand for what could be a very special season.

Neshaminy

Coach: Matt DeMatteo (sixth season)

Last year: 10-7-1, Flyers Cup participant

Key players: Jr. Cory Hemberger (G); So. Liam Mooney (D); Sr. J.J. Hathaway (D); Sr. Max Gallagher (F); Sr. Nolan Geria (F); Sr. Danny McColgan (F); Sr. Noah Seewagen (F); Sr. Michael Knipple (F); So. Ryan DeMatteo (F)

Outlook: The ‘Skins are perhaps the most experienced team in their division. Eleven seniors return from a unit that reached the Flyers Cup quarterfinals last season.

DeMatteo is optimistic about what the future could hold.

“We’ll look to continue to build on the success we had in the regular season and the Flyers Cup to take the next step forward together as a team,” he said.

North Penn

Coach: Kevin Vaitis (14^th season)

Last year: 1-15

Key players: St. Nick Crist (G) Sr. Sam Mostochuck (D); St. Tyler Porubski (D); Fr. James Boyle (D); Jr. John Stinson (F); Jr. Joey Silvotti (F); So. Cole Pluck (F); Sr. Derek Delong (F)

Outlook: The Knights endured a long, cold winter last season. Vaitis is looking to turn things around with a back-to-basics approach.

“We are focusing early on this season on coming together as a team,” he said, “focusing on key system specifics, and hard work. We do not want to be outworked during the season. Another area we are focusing on is getting puck support in the zone with lots of shots and traffic in front.”

Pennridge

Coach: Jeff Montagna, fifth season

Last year: 22-0-1, defensing SHSHL, Class AA Fyers Cup and state champions

Key players: So. Nick Young (D); Jr. Colin Dachowski (D); Jr. Trey Mikulich (D); Jr. Kevin Pico (F); So. Shane Dachowski (F); Jr. Andrew Savona (F); Jr. Tyler Manto (F): Sr. Dane Fichette (F)

Outlook: The 2022 edition of the Rams put together one of the most remarkable seasons on record. This year’s group is looking to pick up where they left off. An abundance of firepower returns up front and there is experience within the blue-line corps. The only question mark may be in goal.

Pennsbury

Coach: Ryan Daley (sixth season)

Last year: 12-5-1, Flyers Cup participant

Key players: Jr. Aaron McDaniel (G); Sr. Justin Marlin (D); So. Chris Sarver (D-F); Sr. Brendan MacAinsh (F); Sr. Andrew Falkenstein (F)

Outlook: As they launch a new season the Falcons are confronting some heavy graduation losses.

“Luckily we have a strong and talented group of underclassmen ready to fill their shoes,” Daley said.

Souderton

Coach: Ryan Uchniat (fifth season)

Last year: 7-7

Key players: Sr. Noah Connor (G); So. Patrick Callahan (D); Jr. Seth Grossman (F); Jr. Jacob Chow (F); Jr. Liam O’Neill (F); Sr. Timmy Alexander (F)

Outlook: The Big Red matured last year and are hoping to build on that success. Uchniat expects his team to be solid up front with a strong defense backed by quality goaltending.

All content on the Hockey Happenings site is copyright protected and may not be duplicated or redistributed without express permission

American Division

Abington

Coach: Ken Brzozowski (sixth season)

Last year: 15-2, defending divisional champion; Flyers Cup participant

Key players: Sr. Sam Nemec (G); Sr. Sean Doyle (D); Sr. Pat Stelacio (F); Sr. Matt Kramer (F); Sr. Ian Heydt; Sr. Griffin Carpenter (F)

Outlook: The Galloping Ghosts not only won the SHSHL’s American Division (Class A) title last season but earned a place in the Class AA Flyers Cup tournament. Brzozowski is looking to pick up where last year’s team left off.

“The team has been working hard in practices,” he said, “and looks forward to picking up where we left last year with winning results.”

Plymouth Whitemarsh

Coach: Dave Cox (first season)

Last year: 11-6, Flyers Cup participant

Key players: Sr. Chris Maslij (G); Sr. Conlan Carpenter (D); Sr. Jacob Elgart (D); Sr. Matt Flynn (F); Sr. Jeffrey Mencken (F)

Outlook: Cox, a Plymouth Whitemarsh graduate, takes over for Josh Aiello. He inherits a roster that’s deep in experience, one that should make an impact in the division.

Quakertown

Coach: Keith Krem (fourth season)

Last year: 7-9

Key players: Jr. Matt Krem (G); Sr. Jack Diliberto (F-D); Sr. Will Shaw

Outlook: The Panthers are thin in numbers; there are just 10 skaters on the roster. But they are an experienced group. There are five seniors on hand and Krem is a quality goaltender who will keep his team in games.

Springfield

Coach: Bernie Gillespie (first season)

Last year: No team

Key players: So. Liam Baskin (G); Sr. Lucas Davidson (D); Jr. Kenny Granderson (D); So. Felix Boccella (D); So. Gabe Wells (F); Fr. Grayson Quinn (F); So. Chris Cahill (F); So; Thomas Manchester (F); Jr. Marcel Camper (F)

Outlook: The Spartans are new to the SHSHL but not to hockey; the roster features players who are experienced at the club level.

“We’re looking forward to our first season in the league,” Gillespie said.

Wissahickon

Coach: Ken Harrington (eighth season), Flyers Cup participant

Last year: 9-9, Flyers Cup participant

Key players: So. Aiden Brooks (D); Sr. Konrad Foulk (D); Sr. Griffin Lynch (F-D); Sr. Will Hussa (F); So. Danny Hussa (F)

Outlook: The Trojans are likely to be lacking in numbers this season and Harrington is searching for a goaltender. But they should excel at putting the puck in the net.

We invite you to advertise your product, service or event on the Hockey Happenings site. Contact us for details.

C.B. East 3 North Penn 1

HATFIELD—Any hockey team wants to make an impression at the start of a season. Central Bucks East did just that Wednesday night, scoring a 3-1 decision over North Penn at Hatfield Ice to help the Suburban High School Hockey League open its 50th season.

Corey Kosick scored two goals to help East start off its season on a winning note. Kosick, a junior, noted that this year’s edition of the Patriots runs the gambit when it comes to experience and that getting used to the style of play at the high-school level takes time.

“It’s all about being used to our level of play,” he said. “It’s all about hard work. Hard work is alway going to beat talent in the end and that’s why we came out on top today.”

Ethan Cenci gave the Patriots the early lead on a power-play goal 5:46 into the opening session and the two teams battled on even terms through the first two periods.

The officials kept a tight rein on the proceedings during that span, whistling 11 penalties for a total of 39 minutes.

With 15 seconds left in the second frame an engagement involving North Penn’s Sam Mostochuck and East’s Carter Keiser resulted in a major penalty and a game misconduct to Keiser and a three-minute power play for North Penn. The Knights however were unable to capitalize on their advantage.

“I think that sort of sums up our night,” said North Penn coach Kevin Vaitis. “We had aa bunch of power plays early in the game and couldn’t really get any momentum going in the zone, had trouble getting out of our own zone, getting set up in there and working the puck around.

“Their first goal was a power play. It was 1-0 through two periods If you capitalize on one of those (power plays), you’ve got a 1-1 game going into the third.”

Kosick extended the Patriots’ lead with a goal 6:43 into the third frame. John Stinson made it a one-goal game when he scored for the Knights at the 9:09 mark but Kosick answered back just eight seconds later.

The final period featured six additional penalties, three to each side. East coach Jeff Mitchell stressed the importance of his team staying out of the box.

“The first goal definitely got the energy started in the right direction,” he said. “I think the penalties really killed us at the start of this game I think the refs did a great job moderating between both teams. But we’ve got to be able to stay out of the box and be able to keep five men on the ice and keep pucks in the net.”

C.B.East 1 0 2—3

North Penn 0 0 1—1

First-period goal

Ethan Cenci (CBE) from Patrick O’Brien and Charlie Keiser, 5:46 (pp)

Third-period goals

Corey Kosick (CBE) from Keiser and Cenci, 6:43; John Stinson (NP) unassisted, 9:09; Kosick (CBE) from Keiser, 9:17

Shots: C.B. East 33, North Penn 26; Saves: Matt Mangiacapre (CBE) 25, Nick Crist (NP) 30